Andy Burnham’s by-election looms – could he be next PM?

Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has declared his candidacy for the upcoming Makerfield by-election, triggered by Labour MP Josh Simons’ resignation. If elected, Burnham would return to Parliament after serving as an MP from 2001 to 2017, where he previously focused on issues like homelessness and public transport. His potential entry into Westminster could strengthen his position as a challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, especially after Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s surprise resignation. Streeting’s resignation letter accused Starmer of failing to address Labour’s unpopularity and criticized his handling of dissent within the party. The former Health Secretary explicitly stated Starmer ‘will not lead the Labour Party into the next general election’ and urged a broader leadership contest. His departure follows devastating local election results, adding to Starmer’s political challenges. Burnham, known as the ‘King of the North,’ has previously run for Labour leader twice, losing to Ed Miliband in 2010 and Jeremy Corbyn in 2015. His by-election bid requires approval from Labour’s National Executive Committee, but Starmer has indicated he won’t block it. If successful, Burnham’s return to Parliament could coincide with a leadership contest, further complicating Starmer’s tenure. The by-election in Makerfield is scheduled for next month, offering Burnham a direct route to Westminster. His potential candidacy comes amid growing internal party dissatisfaction, with Streeting’s resignation letter highlighting broader concerns about Starmer’s leadership. The situation raises questions about Labour’s future direction ahead of the next general election.